Using AI in the Job Search

With the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) platforms like ChatGPT, your college students may find these tools to be a helpful addition to their job search strategy. It is also critical to learn how to engage with these tools effectively and ethically. The UC Davis Internship and Career Center has added a useful page on our website to guide students in how to use generative AI like ChatGPT. You can review the guide here.

AI's Role in the Job or Internship Search

AI has transformed the traditional job and internship search process, impacting everything from resume screening to interview processes. Many companies now use AI-powered software to sift through resumes, searching for specific keywords and qualifications that match job descriptions. To ensure your student's application stands out, we emphasize the importance of tailoring their resume to match specific job requirements.

Sample Prompts for Generative AI for Use in the Job or Internship Search

Students can use generative AI like ChatGPT to help them in many stages of their job and internship search, such as crafting resume bullet points, writing a first draft of a cover letter, or creating a networking elevator pitch. It is important to learn how to interact with the AI tools in order to use them effectively. Here are a few sample prompts, and you can find more on our website.

• Review my resume like an expert coach and let me know five specific changes I can make based on this job description (insert job or internship description) to better demonstrate my qualifications.
• Based on my resume, generate a short and engaging elevator pitch I can use for networking (insert resume).
• Generate 10 first-round interview questions for this job or internship description (insert job description).

The Human Element: Balancing AI with Personalized Feedback

Despite how helpful generative AI can be, it can't fully replace the in-depth personalized services of career advising. Here are some services offered by the ICC that we recommend the Aggie in your life use in partnership with AI:

• Career Resource Manual: Our in-depth career guide includes sample resumes, cover letters, interview tips and more.
• ResumeReview+: Our online service provides written feedback within 5 business days.
• Drop-In Peer Advising: Students can come to ICC, 2nd Floor, South Hall, Mon-Fri 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. for 15-minute advising sessions on resume, cover letter, job searching, Handshake and more
• Career Advising Appointments: Students can schedule 30-minute appointments with a career advisor to go over resumes, cover letters, interview preparation, career exploration, and more.

Through the services listed above, your student can benefit from tailored, personalized 1:1 career guidance and feedback. Your student can use AI to prepare their resume or cover letter, and then meet with a Career Advisor in order to discuss next steps and how to connect with specific employers of interest.